| Disease | Injury | Nutrition | Poison |
| Special Topic | Surgery | Symptoms | Test |
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Esophageal biopsy culture |
| Definition: |
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This is a laboratory test to identify organisms causing infection from a specimen obtained by a biopsy of the esophagus. |
| Alternative Names: |
| Culture - esophageal biopsy |
| How the test is performed: |
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A sample of esophageal tissue is placed on culture media for the purpose of growing microorganisms (bacteria, fungus, or viruses) in the laboratory which will later be identified. The microbiologist in the laboratory inspects the cultures daily for growth. If microorganisms are detected, other tests may be initiated to determine the sensitivity of the organisms to medications. Optimal antimicrobial therapy can often be determined based on these results. |
| How to prepare for the test: |
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The sample of tissue is usually obtained by EGD (esophagogastroduodenoscopy), a scope which is passed into the esophagus. Fast for at least 6 hours before the test. Remove all jewelry. You will wear a hospital gown. The test may be performed in a specialist's office or special procedures area of an outpatient facility or hospital. Infants and children: The physical and psychological preparation you can provide for this or any test or procedure depends on your child's age, interests, previous experiences, and level of trust. For specific information regarding how you can prepare your child, see the following topics as they correspond to your child's age:
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| How the test will feel: |
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The large tube placed down your mouth and throat, is used to view the esophagus and take the biopsy. However, your are given sedatives, analgesics, and muscle relaxants before the procedure to eliminate much of the discomfort. You are relaxed, but awake enough to cooperate with instructions. The specimen is obtained through the scope with special instruments. The tube is then removed. Some numbness remains until the anesthetic wears off, then sore throat may be noticed for 1 or 2 days. Food and fluid are allowed after the gag reflex returns to prevent choking. |
| Why the test is performed: |
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The test is performed when infection of the esophagus is suspected, an ongoing infection does not respond to treatment, other disease of the esophagus or gastrointestinal tract is suspected or present, or unidentified infection is present. |
| Normal Values: |
| No organisms on the culture after an appropriate growth period is normal. |
| What abnormal results mean: |
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Abnormal results indicate an infection of the esophagus. The infection may be bacterial, viral, or fungal. The causative organism and an effective medication to treat the organism, if available, may be indicated in the results. See documents on: Esophagitis Herpes Esophagitis Candida Esophagitis CMV |
| What the risks are: |
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The risks are related to the procedure of EGD and are mainly discomfort. A small risk of bleeding or infection is also present. |
| Special considerations: |
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Other endoscopic procedures or tests may be performed in conjunction with an esophageal biopsy culture. |
Reviewed By: Camille Kotton, M.D., Infectious Diseases Division, Massachusetts General Hospital and Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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